Renewable Energy Development In Malaysia Research Articles

Potential of Offshore Wind Energy in Malaysia: An Investigation into Wind and Bathymetry Conditions and Site Selection

The government has set an ambitious target of renewable energy development in Malaysia. As a promising renewable energy source, wind energy plays an important role in the Malaysia renewable energy roadmap. Compared to onshore wind energy, offshore wind resources with better quality can be provided in the areas away from the coast, which has greater potential to contribute to electricity generation. Wind and bathymetry conditions are two important factors that determine the feasibility and economics of offshore wind turbines. In this paper, an investigation is conducted on wind and bathymetry conditions around Malaysia. The data source mainly originates from the Global Wind Atlas. The conditions of the coastal areas in different states and federal territories of both Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia are analysed, with a specific focus on wind speed, wind energy density, and bathymetry conditions in high-wind-speed regions. The data and survey are verified and compared with the past published literature. This paper aims to investigate the wind and bathymetry conditions around Malaysia, assess the potential of offshore wind energy, discuss the feasibility of offshore wind turbines, and provide references for offshore wind development in Malaysia.

A spatial-temporal clustering for low ocean renewable energy resources using K-means clustering

Advancements in space technology have enabled the acquisition of reliable marine data, facilitating research on the potential of ocean renewable energy as an alternative source that can reduce dependency on fossil fuels, subsequently mitigating climate change. However, the ocean renewable energy development in Malaysia has not received adequate attention from local authorities and communities due to low resources in this area. Insufficient in-situ data, both in spatial and temporal dimensions, poses challenges in investigating the characteristics of ocean parameters, hindering a thorough study of the potential for ocean renewable energy development. Hence, this paper aims to identify potential ocean renewable energy development locations using the altimetry data and spatial-temporal clustering using the K-means technique. Theoretically, Malaysian seas are suitable for harnessing wind and waves with energy density ranges of up to 104.69 kW/m2 and 4.21 kW/m, respectively. This study enhances the understanding of Malaysian potential for ocean renewable energy, providing valuable information to stakeholders and the government to increase their interest in ocean renewable energy as a sustainable source for electricity generation in the future.

Renewable Energy Scenarios for Sustainable Electricity in Malaysia and the Application of Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) for Decision-making

Renewable energy (RE) is an important addition to existing energy systems, indispensable to the sustainable development of human society now and in the future. Renewable energy is advantageous as it is clean, renewable and sustainable. Although the global power supply mainly relies on fossil fuels, as fuels are consumed and the formation cycle is extremely long, resources will gradually decrease and costs will increase accordingly. There are many types of renewable energy, and the selection of which RE should be chosen in a specific situation depends on many factors. The objective of this study is to develop a decision-making framework based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) which covers four available renewable energy technologies in Malaysia. Through this process, the most critical issues in implementing the renewable energy systems can and have been identified which includes technology, ecological environment and market issues that must be overcome. The AHP results show that hydropower has great potential for electricity generation in Malaysia, while biomass and wind are ranked second and third respectively, and solar is ranked fourth. Nevertheless, this research had only considered four criteria with limitations in terms of the sub-criteria chosen. The accuracy of this framework may be improved if additional criteria are included and analyzed which can closely simulate the actual scenario of renewable energy development in Malaysia. Hence, through continuous optimization of the energy structure, energy security can be ensured while regional development strategies can be promoted for a balanced development of sustainable energy systems in the region.

Transition of renewable energy policies in Malaysia: Benchmarking with data envelopment analysis

Using data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Malmquist index (MI) method, this study investigates the effect of the transition of renewable energy operational policies in Malaysia through static and dynamic analyses. This study also evaluates the performance of the country's operational policies in the development of renewable energy including small renewable energy power (SREP), feed-in tariff (FiT), large-scale solar photovoltaic (LSSPV) and net energy metering. In this study, three inputs (employment, electricity generation and renewable energy licensed capacity) and two outputs (gross domestic product and renewable energy generation) are used. Using the panel dataset, this study applies the Malmquist productivity index to calculate the changes in efficiency, technology and total productivity in four Malaysian regions in 2010–2017. Results show that the East Malaysia region is the most efficient in developing renewable energy during the aforementioned period. Results also demonstrate that Malaysia experienced a decrease in renewable energy efficiency during the first policy transition from the SREP programme to the FiT programme, and efficiency increased during the second policy transition from the FiT programme to the integrated programme in 2017. Malaysia's renewable energy policy transition has also contributed up to sevenfold of social benefits in solar photovoltaic industry job creations between 2012 and 2019, and up to 0.16% in carbon emission reduction of environmental impacts from 2012 to 2018. Using DEA and the MI method, this study highlights the phase of transition of renewable energy policies and the effect of implementing these policies on renewable energy development in Malaysia.

FEED-IN TARIFF, AUCTIONS AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SCHEMES IN MALAYSIA: LESSONS FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS

Malaysia introduced Feed-in Tariff (FiT) in 2004 to incentivise renewable energy projects through the implementation of the National Renewable Energy Policy and Action Plan 2009 and the Renewable Energy Act 2011 (Act 725). Nevertheless, this FiT system failed to assist the country in increasing electricity generation from renewable sources. Later, auctions were introduced to boost the renewable shares, particularly solar photovoltaic power generation, after the quota for solar under the FiT were taken up. The tenders incorporated standard form of the contract along with a long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) which induced for the lowest price for power generation and guaranteed access to the national grid. This measure is considered as an excellent instrument to expand the renewable energy sector. There has always been a question: whether abandoning FiT for auctions is a feasible choice in the interest of sustainable clean energy for sustainable development? The main objective of the present article is to investigate the implementation of auctions to support renewable energy development in Malaysia and to examine whether auctions could replace FiT. This study adopted a doctrinal and comparative approach. It concluded that competitive bidding is preferable to support mature technology and large-scale generations, while FiT should be sustained to support new technologies. The article has also identified several countries such as Germany and India, who have successfully implemented competitive bidding systems to support the aspiration to expand the renewable energy sector.

Psychosocial Implications of Large-Scale Implementations of Solar Power in Malaysia

The present study aimed to investigate the psychosocial impacts of large-scale solar (LSS) power projects. There were 225 participants (n = 109 women, n = 3 did not indicate gender) participated in our study by completing a series of questionnaires. We found that participants who lived farther from the LSS power project location and those who viewed the project as being impactful were optimistic about the benefits LSS power projects could bring. Our participants also demonstrated support for renewable energy development in Malaysia. These findings may provide important implications for the implementation and execution of LSS power projects and policies.

Renewable energy development in Malaysia: Communication barriers towards achieving the national renewable energy target

In Malaysia, the utilization of renewable energy (RE) as in “five fuel diversification policy” has been intensified since 2000 in the 8th Malaysian plan (2001-2005) as an addition to the supply from conventional energy sources. However, the RE goal in the policy was achieved minimally and later continued in the 9th Malaysian plan (2006-2010). At the end of 2010, The RE goal was again achieved minimally. Previous studies have been carried out to understand the influence of technological, economic, social and political barriers to the development of renewable energy in Malaysia, but not much on the communication barriers. Therefore, this paper will thoroughly examine the perceptions and understandings on the communication barriers towards renewable energy development in Malaysia.

The Potential and Status of Renewable Energy Development in Malaysia

The Malaysian Government has set an ambitious target to achieve a higher penetration of Renewable Energy (RE) in the Malaysian energy mix. To date, Malaysia has approximately 2% of its energy coming from RE generation sources compared to the total generation mix and targets achieving 20% penetration by 2025. The current energy mix for Malaysia power generation is mainly provided by natural gas and coal. The discussion will cover the traditional sources of generation including natural gas, coal and big hydro stations. In addition, the paper will cover in depth the potential of RE in the country, challenges, and opportunities in this sector. This study can give an initial evaluation of the Malaysian energy industry, especially for RE and can initiate further research and development in this area in order to support the Government target to achieve RE target of 20% by 2025.

RENEWABLE ENERGY AND POLICY DEVELOPMENT IN MALAYSIA

Research Highlights This paper aims to assess the current progress of RE in this country and identify the impact of business sustainability idea towards RE policy development. The extensive review presented in this work offers a useful reference for policy makers, corporate managers and researchers who have vested interest in business sustainability and renewable energy related studies. ___________________________________________________________________________ Research Objectives The objectives of this study is to explore the evolving concept of business sustainability towards environmental concern and to identify the impact of business sustainability idea towards Malaysia’s policy development on RE deployment. Methodology This is conceptual paper where the authors tend to make the analysis by exploring particular theories on business sustainability, renewable energy (RE), and the engagement of RE activities on Malaysia policy development. Results All energy sources have some impact and benefit on our environment. For instance, renewable energy (RE) is energy resource that naturally replenished over time and always can be generated such as solar, wind and hydro energy. However, if the rate of use exceeds the rate of renewal, gradually it will become unsustainable. Thus, to have a sustainable energy which defined as energy production that can last for the foreseeable future is crucial and become main focus of recent national policies, strategies and development plan as of many countries. Malaysia energy consumption still heavily depended on the non- renewable energies (RE) such as fossil fuel and natural gases. Unfortunately, the use of the non-RE is unsustainable and can contribute adversely towards the environment and economic performance of a country. Renewable energy is brought to play as it is believed sustainable and has the potential to thrive in infinitely competitive market of contemporary business nowadays. Therefore, in 2009, the government of Malaysia has announced a National Renewable Energy Policy and Action Plan (NREPAP) as part of their commitment to accelerate the growth of RE as an alternatives energy sources for the coming years. Moving onwards, a strong policy is needed to tackle the challenges in meeting the demand, energy security and also the affordability of energy pricing. Thus, in energy security dimension, perhaps the government should put attention on renewable energy by engaging more on the alternative mechanism to deploy RE capacity through program such as Large-Scale Solar PV, Net Metering as at current practices and also other new initiative like green certificates. The exploration on new RE resource such as wind, geothermal, ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) also could assist in build up a new opportunity to enlarge the share of renewable energy mix percentage and ensure the future energy security (UNDP, 2007) Findings The energy industry is changing fast and in multiple directions. It is also regularly known as the catalyst for development in a country. Realizing the importance of energy as a vital dimension in economic and social development, the government of Malaysia has been continuously reviewing its energy policy and practices to ensure long-term sustainability, reliability and security of energy supply (Mohamed & Lee, 2006). The private sector even the communities should also be more corporate in social responsibilities and make compromises for instance by participating in green programs and accepting longer payback periods in RE projects. Nevertheless, continuous efforts and strong support from the societies are vital to ensure RE development can reach its maximum potential. This effort is also supported by (Dincer, 2000) and (Wutenhagen, Wolsink, & Buer, 2007) where they are stressed that increases the public awareness and acceptance on RE, it is as the initial step to make the sustainable energy program successful. This is done through the media, professional organizations, public and government channels. In conclusion, since there is still insufficient insight to critically reasoning the RE development in aspect of business and sustainability, the paper insists to contributes more to the research on energy policies enhancement in Malaysia particularly. This could be a challenge on governing agenda that involves a series of tradeoffs, market players, organizations and companies (Oliveira, 2018) and these efforts are important to ensure the future success of the RE development in Malaysia. Acknowledgement The authors would like to acknowledge Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) for the fund granted through the Internal Grant (UNIIG2019), Project code: J510050852. References Dincer, I. (2000). Renewable energy and sustainable development: a crucial review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 4(2), 157–175. Mohamed, A. R., & Lee, K. T. (2006). Energy for sustainable development in Malaysia: Energy policy and alternative energy. Energy Policy, 34(15), 2388–2397. Oliveira, R. L. De. (2018). Powering the future : Malaysia ’ s energy policy challenges. Kuala Lumpur: IDEAS Policy Research Berhad. UNDP, United Nations Development Programme. (2007). Energy and Poverty in Malaysia: Challenges and the Way Forward. UNDP. Wutenhagen, R., Wolsink, M., & Buer, M. J. (2007). Social acceptance of renewable energy innovation: An introduction to the concept. Energy Policy, 35, 2683–2691.

A Survey on Renewable Energy Development in Malaysia: Current Status, Problems and Prospects

Abstract Energy demand in Malaysia is increasing over seven per cent a year, while forty per cent of the energy is supplied from conventional fossil fuel. However, a number of social barriers have mired the social acceptance of renewable energy among the users. This study investigates the current status of renewable energy, problems and future outlook of renewable energy in Malaysia. A total of 200 respondents were surveyed from Klang Valley in Malaysia. Majority of the respondents use energy to generate electricity. Although some respondents reported using solar energy, there is lack of retail availability for solar energy. The findings show that limited information on renewable energy technologies, lack of awareness, and limited private sector engagement emerged as major barriers to sustainable renewable energy development. In addition, the respondents suggest for increasing policy support from the government to make information more accessible to mass users, provide economic incentives to investors and users, and promote small-community based renewable energy projects. The study suggests that the government begin small scale projects to build awareness on renewable energy, while academically, higher learning institutions include renewable energy syllabus in their academic curriculum. The study concluded that to have sustainable renewable energy development, government’s initiative, private sector engagement and users awareness must be given priority.

Barriers to Renewable Energy Development: Five Fuel Policy in Malaysia

Since the year 2000 in Malaysia, national government has identified appropriate implementation strategies for the development and utilisation of renewable energy sources. A target of obtaining 5% of the total energy supply from renewable sources was set, although it has not yet been reached. A lot of studies were carried out about potential technological, economic, social, or politics barriers to renewable energy development in Malaysia. Although important, there is a necessity for multi aspect investigation of these barriers. By applying a theoretical framework, this paper seeks to examine expert perceptions and understanding of the barriers to renewable energy development in Malaysia. This study shows that barriers to renewable energy cannot be explained only by one factor in separation. The results of this study indicate that, the intention to use renewable energy is influenced by the cost of renewable energy technology. From the analysis of the opinions of the respondents, it can be said that best way to overcome these barriers is that the government should play a powerful leadership.

Renewable energy update: Malaysia

Recent renewable energy development in Malaysia is described. Three major sources, namely hydro-electricity, biomass and solar energy are discussed, focussing more towards the needs of electrical energy for electrification, and the need to dispose biomass waste generated from forestry and agricultural industries.